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Number comprehension by a grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus), including a zero-like concept
Irene M Pepperberg1, Jesse D Gordon
1Department of Psychology, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA 02454, USA. impepper@media.mit.edu
Summary
A Grey parrot demonstrated impressive numerical comprehension, understanding quantities and even the concept of "none" for zero. This avian numerical competence rivals that of young children and chimpanzees.
Area of Science:
- Comparative Cognition
- Avian Cognition
- Numerical Cognition
Background:
- Numerical competence is crucial for cognitive development.
- Understanding quantity and zero is a key aspect of numerical ability.
- Grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) have shown remarkable cognitive abilities, including quantification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess a Grey parrot's comprehension of numerical labels.
- To evaluate the parrot's understanding of quantity and absence of quantity (zero).
- To compare the parrot's numerical competence with that of other species and human children.
Main Methods:
- The parrot, previously trained to quantify items, was tested on its comprehension of numerical labels without further training.
- The parrot was presented with various sets of objects and asked "What color/object [number]?"
- Performance was evaluated based on accuracy across different quantities, masses, and contours.
Main Results:
- The parrot achieved over 80% accuracy in comprehending numerical labels.
- Accuracy was not affected by the quantity, mass, or contour of the presented items.
- The parrot demonstrated understanding of "none" to signify zero quantity.
Conclusions:
- The Grey parrot exhibited numerical comprehension abilities comparable to chimpanzees and young children.
- This study highlights the sophisticated numerical cognition possible in avian species.
- The parrot's understanding of zero indicates a deep grasp of numerical concepts.